Case Study: Effective Translation and Legal Certification for Coote Family Lawyers
Project Details
| Client: | Coote Family Lawyers |
| Contact Person: | Michael Dickson, Personal Assistant to Matthew Dodd |
| Language Pair: | Arabic to English |
Service Requirements
Our Work
Disclaimer: The names used in this content have been changed to maintain security and confidentiality. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.
Introduction
In June 2024, Australian Translation Services was approached by Coote Family Lawyers with an urgent need for the translation of several Arabic documents into English. The translation also required legal certification through an affidavit. This case study outlines the project details, challenges, solutions, outcomes, and key lessons learned from our perspective.
Objective
Challenges
1. Time Constraint: Michael Dickson Personal Assistant to Matthew Dodd (Coote Family Lawyers) requested for the translation to be completed “ASAP,” leaving limited time for thorough processing.
2. Preferred Translator: The client specifically requested Mr. – due to his previous experience with similar tasks.
3. Affidavit Requirement: The translation had to be legally certified through an affidavit, necessitating a Zoom meeting between the translator and the client.
Solutions and
Process
1. Immediate Scheduling: We (AustralianTranslationServices) notified the translator immediately of the translation request and confirmed his availability.
2. Dedicated Translator: The translator’s prior knowledge and experience with similar projects ensured consistency and understanding of the case.
3. Affidavit Preparation: We arranged a Zoom meeting between the translator and Coote Family Lawyers for the signing of the affidavit.
4. Open Communication: We provided Michael Dickson with direct contact information to discuss any queries and to clarify the process and costs involved.
Outcome
1. Quick Turnaround: We delivered the translated documents accurately and promptly to meet the urgent needs of Coote Family Lawyers.
2. Legalised Translations: The translator signed the affidavit via Zoom, legalising the translations for court use.
3. Client Satisfaction: Our tailored objectives and deliverables added value, increased trust, and strengthened our relationship with Coote Family Lawyers.
4. Effective Communication: Regular phone calls and candid discussions ensured clarity and a strong client relationship.
Conclusion
The successful completion of this project highlighted the importance of delivering flexible and responsive translation services, especially for urgent legal requests. Using qualified, experienced, and NAATI-certified translators, providing legal certifications, and maintaining open lines of communication were crucial to meeting the client’s needs.
Key Points
- Specialised Translator: Clients often prefer translators familiar with their specific situations. Building lasting relationships and maintaining accurate records of past works is crucial.
- Project Management: Proper management of translation flows and urgencies is essential to maintain quality.
- Legal Certification Procedures: Understanding and assisting in legal processes like signing affidavits can significantly enhance the demand for legal translation services.